Fernando hails Chelsea rival

MANCHESTER City’s midfield enforcer Fernando has revealed he is studying Nemanja Matic in a bid to improve his own game ahead of tomorrow evening’s key Premier League clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

The Brazilian, a summer signing from Porto, played against Matic several times as the Serbian turned out for Benfica. He calls his Chelsea rival “incredibly important” to Jose Mourinho’s side.

Looking ahead to what is sure to be a tough midfield battle in a clash that has been billed as a potential title decider, Fernando said: “It’s a specific position and one that is really important for every team all over the world. I played against Matic and he is a really great player. There aren’t many players like him now.”

Yaya Toure has been linked with a potential switch to Serie ‘A’ giants Inter Milan, who are now managed by ex-City boss Roberto Mancini.